Pilates - Beginning Mat Workout Details

A good workout but not for total beginners

This dvd consists of: a brief introduction to the principles of Pilates; a 35ish minute mat workout; a 12 minute 'boost' thing (enough to get you a bit breathless).

I've taken a few courses in Pilates and for me this was a good vid to keep me fit while unable (i.e. too lazy/poor) to go to a class. However, I'd be wary of doing any video Pilates without having been to a class or two first - I think it's really helpful to have a teacher there to tell you when using the wrong muscles or likely to hurt yourself.

That said, this had a good range of levels, so you could progress over a few sessions. It also explained the moves well (without going on about it so much that you're irritated when you've watched it more than twice). Additionally, the host wasn't insanely annoying (apart from the very occasional muscle flex/grin combo, but I think it's in the contract for these things), and I'm usually easily annoyed so that's impressive.

It also has a good cardiac component which hasn't been present in the classes I've been to.

Altogether a recommendation - jolly well done Ana.